So as it is, I have hike 706 miles on the trail, and dozens and dozens more off trail, in towns, and searching for water. I am now DONE with the So*Cal section, out of the desert, the high desert, the sand and the sun. No more constant fear of rattlers, no more cactus and desert rose and yucca and schitzo lizards. I can't say I'll miss it: I passed it's tests, I've respected it in the best way I know. I have shed my blood, sweat and tears to get through with a smile. (well not blood, I haven't bled yet, and nobody makes me bleed my own blood....nobody) Now I have hiked over 25% of the way from the border of Mexico to the border of Canada. 25% is just an arbitrary number though, it really describes nothing but that I am actually making progress. I am happy with myself mentally, and physically for getting stronger. I am the healthiest I have ever been. I no longer hate looking at myself in the mirror, even though my body still looks pretty much the same, it feels so much different. Mentally, I am so proud of my progress. There have been some difficult days. There have been distractions from home, thoughts of the past often lead to getting down on myself, learning to live in the present and look forward to the future rather than worry about the past and dwell on negative thoughts and situations out of my control is becoming easier and easier to do. I have an amazing support crew, I have so many people to thank and I truly appreciate all the support. Knowing that I somehow can inspire other people simply by just trying to live my own life and better myself feels so good and I can't wait until I can sit down with some of you and share some time so I can relay my thanks in person.
In less than 5 days I'll summit Mt. Whitney. For the 2nd time in my life. To stand at the elevation of 14,504 feet with my brother and father was one of the greatest moments of my life, but walking on my own two feet from Mexico back up there should be truly amazing as well!
Thank you all for everything!!
KRISTO
